With FX’s Love Story premiering February 12th, fascination with Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy beauty favorites and her signature minimalism is resurfacing. While the series revisits her iconic romance, it also reminds us of her quietly powerful beauty aesthetic.
The allure of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy beauty favorites lies in her restraint. She didn’t rely on heavy glam or dramatic trends. Instead, she chose refined, intentional products that enhanced rather than transformed.
Carolyn has always been a muse for me. I adore her clean aesthetic and timeless beauty. Her clothes and beauty are as beautiful now as they were in the 90’s.
Here are the documented Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy beauty favorites — including the ones you can still purchase today.
Face Stockholm “Cranberry Veil” Lipstick
One of the most talked-about products associated with Carolyn is Face Stockholm Lipstick in Cranberry Veil.
This soft berry shade perfectly captured her signature lip: muted, sophisticated, and never loud. It offered just enough depth to define the mouth while still feeling effortless.
The good news?
Face Stockholm still produces Cranberry Veil today, making it one of the most authentic Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy beauty favorites you can currently buy.
To modernize it:
- Apply straight from the bullet for a polished finish.
- Or tap it in with your finger for a softer stain effect.
Abdul Kareem Egyptian Musk Oil
Carolyn was known to wear Abdul Kareem Egyptian Musk Oil, a clean, intimate fragrance with soft musk undertones.
Unlike bold perfumes, Egyptian Musk sits close to the skin. It’s subtle, warm, and quietly captivating — much like her entire aesthetic.
It is still available through one source and one seller on Ebay. He produces a small quantity and sells it randomly throughout the year. If you are lucky enough to snag a bottle or two you will quickly understand why this scent is so special.
If you appreciate understated luxury, this scent embodies the spirit of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy beauty favorites perfectly.
Victoria Beckham Beauty “The Foundation Drops”
Although she wasn’t one for heavy foundation, Carolyn favored natural, perfected skin. Victoria Beckham’s The Foundation Drops is a foundation that can give you her minimalist complexion routine.
Why it fits her aesthetic:
- Real-skin finish
- Lightweight texture
The Foundation Drops are a best seller for a reason and continue to be one of the easiest ways to achieve that polished, understated glow.
Apply sparingly and blend seamlessly into the jawline for that effortless effect.
CÔTE | Cosmos Nail Polish “Pink Opal”
Unfortunately, Carolyn’s favorite nail polish from Face Stockholm, Nail Polish #13, which was a sheer opal has long been discontinued.
Carolyn’s manicure was always immaculate yet subtle. She gravitated toward sheer pinks and refined neutrals.
For a similar look I recommend CÔTE | Cosmos Nail Polish in “Pink Opal” which mirrors that aesthetic perfectly. Delicate, feminine, and polished, it continues to be available and remains a bridal favorite for women who appreciate quiet elegance.
The Carolyn Beauty Philosophy
What stands out most about Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy beauty favorites isn’t just the product list — it’s the philosophy behind them.
She embraced:
- Skin that looked like skin
- Lips with soft definition
- Fragrance that whispered, not shouted
- Neutral, polished details
Consequently, her look feels just as relevant today as it did in the 90s.
At Makeup by Kiley Smith, I often teach this same approach in my makeup lessons: elevate your natural features, refine your technique, and choose products intentionally.
Because true elegance never feels excessive.
How to Channel Carolyn’s Look Today
If watching Love Story inspires you to revisit 90s minimalism, here’s how to recreate her style:
- Start with luminous, even skin.
- Add a soft flush of blush.
- Choose a refined berry or neutral lip.
- Keep nails sheer and polished.
- Finish with a subtle, skin-like fragrance.
The key is restraint.
And that is why Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy beauty favorites continue to inspire a new generation of women seeking timeless sophistication.
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